Split strategy
Students break numbers into tens and ones, add the parts and recombine the total.
Free maths practice app
Mental maths strategies practice app
A quick classroom-ready app for learning and practising split strategy, count on, number-line jumps, levelling, compensation and bridging.
Count on and number lines
Count-on and number-line examples make jumps visible before students try the steps themselves.
Levelling and compensation
Students see how changing numbers can make addition or subtraction friendlier while keeping the answer connected.
Bridging to ten
Bridging questions help students jump to the next ten first, then add what is left.
What students practise
The app is built for short mental maths strategy practice where students see the method, name the steps and then try each step.
- split strategy for two-digit addition
- counting on from the larger number
- number-line jumps for addition and subtraction
- levelling subtraction by changing both numbers
- compensation and bridging strategies for friendlier numbers
How it fits a lesson
Use learn mode while modelling a strategy, then switch to try-it mode when students are ready to enter each step and check their thinking.
- start with one worked example and ask students to explain each line
- choose the strategy that matches the method taught that day
- use try-it mode during rotations or independent practice
- return to the worked example if students enter a step without understanding why
Why it helps
Mental strategies become more transferable when students can explain the move, not only remember the final answer.
- makes mental calculation methods visible
- connects strategy names with concrete steps
- supports reasoning before speed or memorisation
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the mental maths strategies app free?
Yes. Students, teachers and families can open the mental maths strategies app in a browser for free.
Which strategies are included?
The app includes split strategy, count on, number line, levelling, compensation and bridging strategies.
Can students practise the strategy steps?
Yes. The app has a learn mode with worked examples and a try-it mode where students enter each strategy step.
Does it replace teacher modelling?
No. It is designed for practice after students have seen the strategy modelled and have language for the steps.